Over the last decade, Selkirk Sport has become synonymous with excellence in pickleball. Selkirk’s roster of elite athletes has not only racked up an impressive array of titles but also delivered some of the sport’s most memorable moments.
As Selkirk celebrates 10 years in the pickleball industry, we’re taking a moment to honor the top professional achievements that have helped shape our legacy.
From groundbreaking victories to unforgettable feats, Selkirk athletes have consistently pushed the boundaries of the sport. While many moments could have made this list, here are some standout highlights that showcase the incredible journey of Selkirk pros.
The Selkirk Sweep: A historic gold medal sweep at the Tournament of Champions
One of the most remarkable moments in pickleball history occurred at the Tournament of Champions when Selkirk athletes pulled off the unthinkable: sweeping all eight gold medals up for grabs.
Leading the charge were Catherine Parenteau and Tyson McGuffin, each earning a Triple Crown. Parenteau was joined by Parris Todd in women's doubles and McGuffin was joined by James Ignatowich in men's doubles, all of whom played with Selkirk paddles.
The event marked the first occasion where one team of sponsored athletes claimed all eight gold medals on a Championship Sunday.
Collin Shick’s Cinderella run: From qualifier to Championship Sunday
Collin Shick, then a member of Selkirk's Emerging Pro team, shocked the pickleball world with his incredible singles run in 2023.
Starting as the No. 30 seed, Shick battled his way through the back draw and into the finals on Championship Sunday. His unexpected success forced him to rebook his travel plans just to continue competing.
He took down numerous formidable opponents, including Julian Arnold and Dylan Frazier, before facing off against Ben Johns in the gold medal match.
Helle Sparre’s international impact: Teaching pickleball in Bhutan
Senior pro Helle Sparre, originally a professional tennis player, took her love for pickleball abroad, traveling to Bhutan to introduce the game to children. Sparre’s efforts in teaching the sport to a new generation in an underserved region reflect Selkirk’s commitment to growing pickleball worldwide.
James Ignatowich’s ESPN glory: Making the Top 10
James Ignatowich made headlines when he landed the No. 1 spot on ESPN SportCenter’s Top 10 Plays.
With his back to the court, Ignatowich executed a jaw-dropping around-the-post shot, taking the already difficult move to new heights.
Jack Sock joins Team Selkirk: A tennis legend’s transition to pickleball
When former tennis Olympian and four-time Grand Slam champion Jack Sock decided to transition to pickleball, he chose Selkirk Sport’s LUXX Control Air as his paddle of choice.
Sock’s decision to join Team Selkirk was a game-changer for both the brand and the sport, bringing significant attention to pickleball. Now competing on the PPA Tour and in Major League Pickleball, Sock continues to make waves.
Catherine Parenteau’s 40th title: A milestone achievement
Catherine Parenteau reached a career milestone in July 2024, securing her 40th title on the PPA Tour. This staggering accomplishment places her among the elite in pickleball, with only a few others — like Anna Leigh Waters and Ben Johns — having reached this level of success.
Parenteau’s consistent excellence over the years is a testament to her status as one of the sport’s all-time greats, and to date, she has amassed more than 110 medals on the PPA Tour.
The Mary-Go-Round: Mary Brascia’s unbelievable shot
During an MLP mixed doubles match, Selkirk pro Mary Brascia invented a new pickleball shot that left many in awe.
While playing, a high volley was sent Brascia’s way. Unable to hit it in front of her body, she instinctively placed her paddle behind her head and sent the ball back over the net. This unexpected and creative move was soon dubbed "The Mary-Go-Round."
Rachel Rohrabacher’s golden victory: Toppling the titans
Rachel Rohrabacher, alongside her women’s doubles partner Anna Bright, pulled off one of the biggest upsets in pickleball history by defeating the powerhouse duo of Anna Leigh Waters and Catherine Parenteau on Championship Sunday at the 2024 Veolia Austin Open.
Until Rohrabacher and Bright’s victory, Parenteau and Waters were undefeated, winning more than 60 matches together.
Brian Omwando’s Mission: Growing Pickleball in Kenya
Selkirk Advocate Brian Omwando first discovered pickleball while studying at a tennis academy in Kenya. His passion for the sport led him to help establish the first pickleball club in Nairobi and even compete for Kenya in the African Games.
Dylan Frazier’s ascent: The new No. 1 in men’s doubles
After years of consistent performance, Dylan Frazier finally unseated Ben Johns to become the No. 1 ranked men’s doubles player in July 2024.
Frazier, along with his partner JW Johnson, has enjoyed an impressive 10 victories together, making them a force to be reckoned with on the court. After the duo’s men’s doubles win in San Clemente, Frazier earned the No. 1 spot, unseating Ben Johns who had held the title since September 2020.
Big Poppa Jimmy: The birth of a nickname
James Ignatowich earns another spot on our list, this time for his larger-than-life personality. Following a memorable post-game interview, Ignatowich earned the nickname "Big Poppa Jimmy.”
Following a tough semi-final match during which Ignatowich battled leg cramps, Ignatowich was asked about how he overcame his injury to win. In true James fashion, he ignored the question and responded with:
“The monkey’s off my back and daddy’s home. Just so you know, Big Poppa Jimmy — monkey’s off the back. Daddy’s home. Let’s go! … I don’t remember what the question was.”
Thus, the “Big Poppa Jimmy” nickname was born.
PickleSlam 2: A star-studded event
PickleSlam 2 was a monumental event that brought pickleball into the mainstream, with tennis legends turned pickleballers Jack Sock and James Blake facing off against icons like Steffi Graf, Maria Sharapova, John McEnroe, and Andre Agassi.
Both Sock and Blake, using Selkirk gear, showcased their skills in a nationally broadcast event that garnered nearly 1 million viewers.
